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Concepts as Mirrors and Torches: Rigor and Relevance as Scholarly Performativity

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  • Neil Aaron Thompson
  • Orla Byrne
  • Dimo Dimov

Abstract

This article aims to further the rigor and relevance discussion in entrepreneurship studies. It argues that tensions arise due to an adherence to a rigor-as-correspondence perspective, which can be addressed through the advancement of a rigor-as-performativity perspective. Entrepreneurship concepts are tools used to define, represent, and explain entrepreneurial experience, yet how these tools hook onto the world is a question of performance and application rather than unambiguous correspondence. We advocate for a view of rigor and relevance that appreciates the torch-like features of concepts—how they help entrepreneurs deal with the world so that they may fulfil their intentions—whilst retaining an understanding that the future is unknowable and change a constant.

Suggested Citation

  • Neil Aaron Thompson & Orla Byrne & Dimo Dimov, 2023. "Concepts as Mirrors and Torches: Rigor and Relevance as Scholarly Performativity," Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice, , vol. 47(6), pages 2155-2173, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:entthe:v:47:y:2023:i:6:p:2155-2173
    DOI: 10.1177/10422587221128269
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    References listed on IDEAS

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